It was in 1973. I had read Tolkien's obituary, and was intrigued by the photo of the kindly old professor with his pipe, surrounded by illustrations of Hobbits, Elves and Smaug. I read the Hobbit from the school library, then LotR, then the Sil when it was first published (I have a 1st edition American copy here in my library).

Favorite Tolkien character:

Eol. His animosity and depth intrigues me. He is unlike any other character in Middle-earth.